The harpsichord called “Le Hanneton” was made by Louis Denis in Paris in 1658, and though it has been altered over time it retains a magically rich resonance and sensual warmth, ideally suited to the music of the music of the French baroque. Giulia Nuti penetrates its depths in a recital gathering works from the famous Bauyn manuscript, taking slow speeds that suit the elaborate decorations and graceful dance rhythms of the suites. The instrument, unequally tuned and at low pitch, works with the repertory and the performer to reveal a vanished sound world, and in Chambonnières’s wonderfully eloquent Chaconne and Louis Couperin’s noble Passacaille you feel in touch with another civilisation.
